Russian President Vladimir Putin just last month hosted North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un in Beijing. So it is a remarkable diplomatic triumph that this occurred, just before a massive military parade celebrating 80 years since the end of the second World War. Kim’s visit would be his first outside North Korea since traveling to Russia in September 2023. Such a meeting, if it happens, would illustrate the deepening military partnership between Moscow and Pyongyang. The three leaders lauded their work together on the ground and vowed ongoing support for each other’s military campaigns.
As for Kim’s visit, during the talks, Kim doubled down on North Korea’s willingness to help with Russia’s military efforts, calling it a “fraternal duty.” He stated that North Korea would “as ever invariably support and encourage” China’s government in its efforts to protect its sovereignty and development interests. This announcement arrived as U.S. – Iranian and U.S. – Venezuelan relations remain inflamed.
Putin, in a congratulatory message sent to Kim on North Korea’s foundation day, acknowledged Pyongyang’s backing of Russia’s military operations in Ukraine. He emphasized the importance of North Korea’s involvement, noting that “Your combat force’s heroic involvement in liberating the Kursk territories from the invaders is a distinct symbol of friendship and mutual aid between Russia and North Korea.”
Xi Jinping, the President of China, was present for the high-profile gathering, further strengthening these three nations’ connections. He described China and North Korea as “good neighbours, good friends and good comrades” who share a common destiny. Xi went on to pledge to “defend, consolidate and develop” relations with North Korea, referring to “close comradeship” between the three countries.
Increased tensions have led the Kremlin to issue vociferous denials that it has any plans to do so. This is all happening as concerns increase about new military alliances forming in East Asia. Against this backdrop, these five leaders met in person to discuss and forge concrete plans for deeper, sustained collaboration. They highlighted their tactical unity in responding to imagined outside boogeymen.
North Korea currently supports Russia’s military cooperation by immediately dispatching thousands of soldiers. In addition, these troops are likely taking part in operations to retake the Kursk region, that Ukrainian forces briefly occupied. And second, production – North Korea is already actively supplying artillery ammunition and missiles. This assistance empowers Moscow’s operations in its almost year-long war of aggression against Ukraine.
As Kim wrapped up his visit to Beijing on Thursday, this was an unprecedented time in global diplomacy between the three nations. He stated, “No matter how the international situation changes, the feeling of friendship cannot change,” emphasizing the enduring bonds forged through their alliances.
This joint meeting and parade were yet more embodiments of the deepening military relationships among Russia, North Korea and China. Each in their own way, they acted united to turn the tide against Western liberalism. With tensions rising around the world, these far-flung alliances will be important influencers in deciding how this future geopolitical drama unfolds.
